Binding Adjustment and Binding Release for Alpine Ski Racers

The release bindings of 376 ski racers have been examined. The racers were randomly selected from the participants in seven alpine competitions arranged in Norway during the winters of 1982 (March through May) and 1983 (March). The mean lateral toe release torques of the bindings were about 50% higher than those recommended for fast and well-trained skiers. Only 10% of the racers had bindings that released at the recommended (±10%) values, and 13% had bindings adjusted twice as tightly as recommended. Skiers between the ages of 14 and 29 and those participating in downhill or international racing competitions had tighter bindings than the mean of the racing population. This was also observed for skiers with prior skiing injuries, for skiers who had adjusted their bindings themselves, and for skiers with untested bindings or bindings with insufficient lug clearance at the toepiece (the binding front safe was mounted too low). It is likely that tight bindings may increase the risk of skiing injuries. Release bindings should therefore be tested frequently to control the release torques.